Ever since Cuba has become open for Americans to visit, Havana and other parts of the country have become a travel hot spot. The old world charm, fabulous culture, and amazing people are just a few of the reasons you need to visit now. Wait too long, and the country will become, well, Americanized. Right now it’s the perfect balance of old and new. Vintage cars and old Spanish architecture still abound, while trendy (non-government owned) restaurants, paladares, and bars are beginning to pop up.
In Havana you can even find Airbnb. Casa Habana Vieja is the perfect place for four people to stay, located centrally to many of the historic areas in Old Havana. Flights are affordable and quick. We flew Delta airlines through Atlanta (ATL, can you believe it?!) for the reasonable fare of $344 round trip, and were there in about three short hours.
If we haven’t convinced you yet, here are a few more reasons why you need to add this destination to your bucket list, and start packing your bags now!
The Architecture
The gorgeous Cathedral of the Virgin Mary of the Immaculate Conception is located in the Plaza de la Catedral in the center of Old Havana
The narrow alley ways between main streets are lined with colorful building fronts and bustling with bars and restaurants
The Cars
Every babe should have a car like this!#InstaWorthy much?
The Art
The Almacenes de San José is an open-air arts and crafts market located on the Port of Havana – a must visitStumble into funky art galleries like this one while strolling through the energetic streetsThe Fábrica de Arte Cubano is a cultural center with the best art collection in Cuba, entertainment, bars, dancing & more!
The Music
Similar to New Orleans, live music is everywhere you go, and dancing in the streets is totally acceptableLive entertainment at the Fábrica de Arte Cubano
The Food & Drinks
Rumor has it that La Bodeguita del Medio is where Ernest Hemingway went for a mojitoThe mojitos are delicious and the atmosphere lively. Stick around for one, or a few and dance outside in the streets with the locals 😉On the contrary, Hemingway’s favorite daquiri was had at El Floridita where the daiquiri was inventedA feast of grilled meats and seafood at Sociedad Asturiana Castropol after walking along the MalecónPiña coladas made with fresh pineapples and coconut at the market are some of the best we have ever tastedBy far the best atmosphere and cuisine we experienced in Cuba, El Cocinero is located right next to the Fábrica de Arte CubanoThe lush garden rooftop makes for a lovely intimate dining experienceSeriously the best lamb we have ever hadAnd of course there was dessert…And lots of mojitos!
The History
You will need to get a car to take you about 20 minutes outside of Havana to see Ernest Hemingway’s Finca VigíaThe Museo de la Revolución former and presidential palace is a must-seeHotel Ambos Mundos was Ernest Hemingway’s first residence when he moved to Cuba
The Culture
The University of Havana is a university located in the Vedado district of Havana, the capital of the Republic of Cuba.Hotel Ambos Mundos exterior is a gorgeous pink colorPlaza Vieja is the most popular square in Havana perfect for strolling around and taking in the cultureThe Fábrica de Arte Cubano is the hottest spot for nightlife in Havana
When in Cuba, right?We visited during Carnival season, so we had to bring a touch of NOLA to Havana!
A few extra babe tips:
American credit cards are not currently accepted. You must get as much cash out as you will need for your trip, and exchange USD to CUC’s at the airport or a bank nearby where you are staying.
Internet is pretty much unavailable. Turn off your phone and enjoy a few days of non-constant notification bliss!
Be careful – especially if you are traveling with a group of women. While we didn’t experience any crime, people will try to rip you off (i.e. find you on the street and take you to a bar where they claim a certain historical event happened so you will buy drinks).
Don’t drink the water and be careful of what you eat. Our stomachs aren’t used to certain bacteria in the water, and you could get very sick. Bring precautionary meds just in case.
We hope this helped you get a better idea of what to expect in Havana babes! It’s definitely a destination to add to the bucket list if you haven’t already.
